If you fly with any frequency in the United States, you’re probably at least familiar with CLEAR. CLEAR is a technology company that helps expedite the screening process at select airports in the United States. CLEAR stores your biometric data, and the intent is that you can skip the ID check at TSA checkpoints after CLEAR verifies your identity.
CLEAR is supposed to minimize hassle and save you time. However, in terms of time savings, CLEAR isn’t what it once was, given how many people are now members. Instead of waiting in the TSA line, you’ll often find yourself waiting in the CLEAR line. CLEAR claims to process over 10% of travelers at the 52 airports that are part of the program, which is a much higher number than most would probably assume.
Well, CLEAR is now changing in a major way, which will make it less convenient for travelers. Actually, if you ask me, it eventually renders CLEAR useless. The TSA is immediately increasing random ID checks for CLEAR travelers, and soon all CLEAR travelers will have to show their ID to TSA agents. Let’s go over all the details.
In this post:
TSA requiring more random ID checks for CLEAR travelers
CLEAR members have long been subjected to random ID checks by TSA agents. After all, the government wants to make sure that CLEAR is doing its job correctly. In the past, these random ID checks were pretty rare, but that has changed effective immediately.
As of July 2023, the TSA has increased the number of CLEAR travelers who are being subjected to additional ID verification at the security checkpoints. The Washington Post reports that this is a result of a security incident that happened in the summer of 2022 related to CLEAR, which raises national security concerns. The TSA won’t say what kind of a security breach this was, but states that this increased verification is critical to aviation safety.
Random ID checks have already been stepped up in recent months, but the number of checks has increased even more as of July 2023. Regarding this change, the TSA issued the following statement:
“TSA is responsible for ensuring that all systems and programs, including those provided by private companies, meet requisite standards and will take necessary steps to ensure security needs are met. Accurate and reliable verification of passenger identity is foundational to aviation security and effective screening by TSA.”
Meanwhile CLEAR has issued the following statement:
“CLEAR will continue to deliver the superior and secure experience that travelers know, love and depend on.”
I’d be curious to know if any OMAAT readers have noticed a change to the number of random ID checks when using CLEAR in the past couple of weeks, since this latest change has been implemented.
TSA will soon require all CLEAR travelers to show ID
The current increase in ID verification for CLEAR users is only the beginning. A TSA spokesperson has confirmed to me that soon all Registered Traveler participants (CLEAR is the biggest such program) will need to present IDs to TSA agents:
“All Registered Traveler participants will be required to present ID, whether physical or digital, to TSA’s Credential Authentication Technology (CAT), with the timeline for implementation to be determined.”
Suffice it to say that this is a major development. The selling point of CLEAR is that you save time by not having to show your ID to a TSA agent. That will be changing, really eliminating the point of the program. You’ll basically have your identity verified twice, rather than once.
Even with this change, CLEAR members will still be allowed to cut the TSA lines, so I imagine this will create some bottlenecks.
My take on this CLEAR ID verification changes
Am I the only one who is curious what exactly this security incident was last summer?
- In many ways, a person’s identity shouldn’t really matter at a security checkpoint, as long as they’re screened correctly
- Since CLEAR doesn’t do the actual security screening, and since the TSA is increasing ID verification, presumably this incident involves someone being able to fake their identity (perhaps someone who was on some watch list), or some CLEAR employees not doing their jobs
Back when I first enrolled in CLEAR many years ago, the program saved me considerable time. But that’s just not the case anymore, at least for the airports I visit. Many airports have very short TSA PreCheck lines, in which case the time savings are minimal. Then at some hub airports where CLEAR is especially popular, the CLEAR line can sometimes be longer than the standard TSA PreCheck line.
Now we’re immediately seeing more ID checks, and soon all CLEAR members will have to show their IDs to TSA agents. I mean, is there any point to CLEAR anymore then?
- Couldn’t the space used by CLEAR lanes better be used to expand existing checkpoint areas?
- It’s kind of unfair to non-CLEAR travelers that those who have a CLEAR membership will essentially be able to cut the line to have their ID check; this will no longer be about skipping the ID check, but rather will be about getting priority access to the ID check
Bottom line
The TSA has stepped up ID verification for CLEAR members, following a security incident that allegedly happened last summer. That’s only the beginning, though, as the TSA tells me that soon all CLEAR travelers will have their IDs checked by TSA agents, with the timeline for implementation still to be determined.
The point of CLEAR is to be able to skip the TSA ID check and save time. If CLEAR members now require ID checks from TSA agents, there’s no point to the program anymore.
What’s your take on additional ID verification for CLEAR members? And how does CLEAR have any future if ID checks are required?
I have had my IF checked the last 8 times I have flown but I seem to be an outlier as most other Clear members don’t
Can someone please tell me why I have to provide my eye scan when they are making you show your ID? In my opinion the only benefit is a slightly shorter line. I scan my eyes at the kiosk then the clear rep walks me to the TSA check person where they scan my eyes again. Why am I doing all this biometric scanning and what are you doing with my data? I will not be renewing.
Pro tip: A bit off topic from tsa ids but I fly 3 times per month. If any of you are going to apply for tsa or global entry save yourself from the stress and use an appointment scanner like ttptracker.com. Hope it helps some of you
Clear.me I miss the old you. Smart, quick, and friendly.
Not so much anymore! MCO staff seems to have gotten their training from the folks at Aeroflot (the Russian airline). More interested in chatting with colleagues than working to clear the queue.
Plus as noted in the story - the value story here is gone. It takes longer to use the service than to wait in the Pre-Check line.
Save your $$$ and say goodbye...
Clear.me I miss the old you. Smart, quick, and friendly.
Not so much anymore! MCO staff seems to have gotten their training from the folks at Aeroflot (the Russian airline). More interested in chatting with colleagues than working to clear the queue.
Plus as noted in the story - the value story here is gone. It takes longer to use the service than to wait in the Pre-Check line.
Save your $$$ and say goodbye to Clear - I can only assume they will go the was of Bed, Bath and Beyond and become irrelevant.
I had to show my id to the TSA person when using CLEAR at the MIA H gates this past Saturday, July 15. The CLEAR agent was busy having a personal conversation with another CLEAR employee while my eyes had issues scanning in the machine. This same inept CLEAR agent walked me over to the "regular" TSA line. I insisted on being placed into the faster TSA Pre-Check line (the leftmost lane), but the clueless...
I had to show my id to the TSA person when using CLEAR at the MIA H gates this past Saturday, July 15. The CLEAR agent was busy having a personal conversation with another CLEAR employee while my eyes had issues scanning in the machine. This same inept CLEAR agent walked me over to the "regular" TSA line. I insisted on being placed into the faster TSA Pre-Check line (the leftmost lane), but the clueless CLEAR agent said that I was in the correct line. I then flagged down a TSA agent who then allowed me to go into the correct screening lane (the leftmost lane). This is typical MIA stupidity.
Then... my 9:30am departure was delayed for over an hour - after we had fully boarded. Apparently ALL departing flights were delayed at least one hour. MIA did not have enough workers to fuel all aircraft. So each flight had to wait. And wait. And wait. Again, this is typical MIA stupidity.
Wash Post gives good background on the security breach... https://www.washingtonpost.com/transportation/2023/07/12/tsa-airport-screening-clear-checkpoints/
This article also notes that now the typical tax paying travelers have to wait longer as TSA officers have to perform ID verification each time a CLEAR member jumps to the front of the line. Here's a solution... stick with TSA Pre!
Wrong. In fact the article says, "TSA officials wouldn’t detail last summer’s security breach, citing national security concerns,"......so, totally uninformative.
A letter from House Homeland Security Committee to TSA Administrator last year indicated CLEAR falsely enrolled tens of thousands of customers last year. Basically, that means TSA was performing its pre-flight watchlist checks against incorrect traveler data. That is hugely significant and scary for anybody that understands how important that is. Basically, CLEAR could've enabled terrorists to get through screening and TSA would've been none the wiser, except that they nabbed an individual at a...
A letter from House Homeland Security Committee to TSA Administrator last year indicated CLEAR falsely enrolled tens of thousands of customers last year. Basically, that means TSA was performing its pre-flight watchlist checks against incorrect traveler data. That is hugely significant and scary for anybody that understands how important that is. Basically, CLEAR could've enabled terrorists to get through screening and TSA would've been none the wiser, except that they nabbed an individual at a checkpoint w/ illegal items and CLEAR's shortcomings came to life. The good this is that layered security is effective!
Just had a trip in Australia. If you are not checking bags, Security does not check for id/bp. When boarding no Id is checked. They even allowed water to be brought on board for domestic flights.
The increased identity verification for CLEAR, at least for me, started last December. I was flying a few times a month and had to show id 50-75% of the time.
Ruhr get the dates right it’s September not November
I love the concept of Clear, but the biggest issue is that it takes a person to walk you to the TSA agent. Using a lane with a stopgate and only opens when you are matched with biometrics, would be much more efficient.
One major reason why more have clear is a number of credit cards will reimburse for it IN ADDITION to global entry. If clear does the facial recognition and you have to scan your boarding card then it matches your name with you. I don't understand why then would an ID be required by the agent or how it could be done wrong.
I’m a clear member and will not be renewing-I have had constant “random” ID checks (one time for both legs of a round trip!) recently.
Lol, so will they do away with the iris scan and having to wait for a slow CLEAR representative to escort you to the scanner and then to the TSA agent?
Just do away with the whole program - it’s completely pointless.
I have probably been random ID checked w clear 5/8 last trips through security…2/2 this week
So glad it’s useless and I hope it goes away. I’m tired of having these people escorted in front of me, cutting into the pre-check line. At Dulles a few weeks ago I was stopped 5 times for Clear people to cut into line. Really dumb process.
CLEAR just ain't what it used to be! I have been a CLEAR member since its first year. They made me feel like a VIP. There were no lines, no wait. Now, with airlines and credit card companies giving free membership to CLEAR I have found that the regular TSA Pre-Check line is sometimes faster. The CLEAR line at Denver airport recently has become ridiculously long. Even though I now get CLEAR for free as...
CLEAR just ain't what it used to be! I have been a CLEAR member since its first year. They made me feel like a VIP. There were no lines, no wait. Now, with airlines and credit card companies giving free membership to CLEAR I have found that the regular TSA Pre-Check line is sometimes faster. The CLEAR line at Denver airport recently has become ridiculously long. Even though I now get CLEAR for free as a United 1K flyer, depending on the airport, I will not be using it near as much as I did before.
It’s all about exit controls. TSA is using and rapidly expanding the idemia system nationwide. Clear is not integrated to that. They want to check everyone every time before they can fly. Your rights are being squeezed and it’s couched as a benefit of no boarding pass needed at TSA.
So, i've had clear since August of 2010, back when you had to have a clear card they scanned before your biometrics... and TBT in the last 3 mo's i've had my ID have to be checked EVERY time, and it's made me decide to not renew, in the years before I think I had my id checked mabey 3-4 times... total... my average is around 120 one way flight per year... and with all...
So, i've had clear since August of 2010, back when you had to have a clear card they scanned before your biometrics... and TBT in the last 3 mo's i've had my ID have to be checked EVERY time, and it's made me decide to not renew, in the years before I think I had my id checked mabey 3-4 times... total... my average is around 120 one way flight per year... and with all the extra checks, I might as well just go thru the regular pre-check lane... it's not worth the extra cost...
I have had more ID checks with CLEAR. The only that CLEAR will do in the future is allow you to cut in line at the TSA desk - and for some airports the TSA line is long.
I fly twice a week and I’m being asked on each segment to show ID. It’s no longer random and it’s been going on for over 90 days now.
I fly twice a week - I have been asked EVERY single time in the last 4 weeks for ID. I keep asking what is the point of clear? I have Global Access/pre TSA already - only reason I don’t drop it is because it’s free through my Amex amex.
I get it free from my Amex Platinum card. Since I live in Charlotte and AA isn't a stake holder in Clear it is rare I use it. Have done so at LAS and DEN mainly. DEN is nice since has a dedicated line (with a separate TSA agent) for Clear although there are definitely times it takes longer in Clear than PreCheck. LAS merges the lines and you get to skip ahead of all...
I get it free from my Amex Platinum card. Since I live in Charlotte and AA isn't a stake holder in Clear it is rare I use it. Have done so at LAS and DEN mainly. DEN is nice since has a dedicated line (with a separate TSA agent) for Clear although there are definitely times it takes longer in Clear than PreCheck. LAS merges the lines and you get to skip ahead of all the people in the Precheck line which I always enjoy. However, last time I was there only 2 Clear employees were working and there was a line waiting to access a machine (since they have to see you validate and then escort you to the TSA agent). Not sure if any faster then that regular PreCheck but used just because I had it.
I would never pay for Clear.
Just used Clear this past week. No ID check. Have to say though, that I feel like any lackadaisical attitude toward security can lead us to a situation akin to 9-11. Flags were everywhere there and mostly ignored. We should perhaps stay vigilant and be ok with some checks. A few minutes extra is ok.
"It’s kind of unfair to non-CLEAR travelers that those who have a CLEAR membership will essentially be able to cut the line to have their ID check"
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This is one of the more nonsensical comments by Lucky in the history of OMAAT. The whole blog exists as a way to get privileges not available to other travelers, but all of a sudden CLEAR is where you draw the line?
Agree. How is it unfair? You're paying for a service and it provides a benefit. He did not say that pre-check is unfair to people that do not have it....
Or unfair that some have pre departure Champagne after being driven by a BMW from a private terminal.
Got to say this. Haters gonna hate.
Y'all were, and still are, idiots to give private companies your biometrics.
CLEAR is about to lose one of its major advantage.
They brag about using best security protocols but never told you how they will protect your data after they go out of business.
When someone hacked your password you could reset it.
Good luck resetting your biometrics.
Yes-because the biometrics taken in governmental agencies aren’t stored and managed by private contractors-looks like you might be an idiot like the poor rest of us for believing it
@lasdiner
Well I never said governments are more secured. Unfortunately those are often not optional.
But idiots, like you, would like to draw idiotic conclusions themselves.
I've gone through clear at least 20 times this year and last week was the first time I didn't get a random ID check...
I am 2 for 2 at random ID selection this week (ATL and DEN)- hard to believe this is actually random except that I rarely see too many people in front or behind me selected?
I dont mind showing them my ID - but my growing issue with CLEAR is that the lines are getting worse and worst, especially at major airports. At MSY and LAS, CLEAR has been great since rarely is there...
I am 2 for 2 at random ID selection this week (ATL and DEN)- hard to believe this is actually random except that I rarely see too many people in front or behind me selected?
I dont mind showing them my ID - but my growing issue with CLEAR is that the lines are getting worse and worst, especially at major airports. At MSY and LAS, CLEAR has been great since rarely is there a line - but hubs are crazy - it is one thing if you 'know' you are going to stand in line for 30+ minutes, but when it is so variable it makes it hard to plan your day.
Hopefully, one day there will be a system that is actually fast and efficient, not based on anecdotes (like bomb material found once in a shoe or belt), and can accommodate the huge number of people flying these days. I sense the problem will get worse before it gets better.
And while I value my privacy, I think this is a perfect opportunity for facial recognition systems (like that exist everywhere - have you tried a self check-out system lately?) and a bunch of dogs sniffing luggage.
Ben, you've been fond of saying "if everyone is clear, no one is clear." Now we've reached the point of "if no one is clear, no one is clear."
Definitely not a program I would use if I didn't get for free. But it's all part of the same trend where the airlines have oversold the exclusive aspects of the travel experience to the point of meaninglessness -- overcrowded lounges with waits to get in, half the plane getting "priority" boarding etc.
I just renewed clear. This is a total joke. I gave them my info and biometrics for this?? The times I have used clear I felt it took longer than just going through the regular line.
I guess this is because I fly out of DCA primarily, and DCA is not a Clear-heavy airport, but I have never seen a Clear line that is longer than Pre-Check, and really never seen a Clear line at all.
You should try IAD....
+1 - often Pre check is shorter at IAD
IAD is a disaster for Clear. The Clear people told me to go to the TSA Precheck line because I would get through faster. I complained and they gave me two free months, but they still ahven't fixed the problem at IAD.
Agreed. IAD Clear is a mess.
So how do I get Clear to dump my so-to-be useless biometric information when I dump them? Rhetorical question. There is no way.
Maybe they will implement a $20 feature where they destroy all your data like Ashley Madison did years ago.
Can I ask CLEAR to delete my information?
You have full control of your information. All of your personal data - including biometrics - will be deleted upon request. If you wish to request deletion of your information, just email [email protected].
I get clear for free with DL DM. I only use it 15% of the time… maybe less even. The line is usually always the same length or longer than precheck and the process for waiting for an agent, having the machine line up with my eyes, etc ultimately takes longer than the few extra people in precheck. There have been only 2 times where clear obviously saved me time. I always respond to the...
I get clear for free with DL DM. I only use it 15% of the time… maybe less even. The line is usually always the same length or longer than precheck and the process for waiting for an agent, having the machine line up with my eyes, etc ultimately takes longer than the few extra people in precheck. There have been only 2 times where clear obviously saved me time. I always respond to the surveys they send out and ask them what the value proposition is because I feel like they’re not keeping up with evolving technology. No way I would pay for Clear, especially after the price hikes this year, but sure I appreciate having it for free for those few times it helps.
I was randomly checked just a few weeks ago at SEA. It didn’t take that much time, but was mildly annoying as I also had to update my ID in the CLEAR system. Luckily that was a one-off and I still got to skip to the front of the line. That said, if the TSA Pre line were short, it would now be faster than using CLEAR. I’ll keep it as my credit card covers...
I was randomly checked just a few weeks ago at SEA. It didn’t take that much time, but was mildly annoying as I also had to update my ID in the CLEAR system. Luckily that was a one-off and I still got to skip to the front of the line. That said, if the TSA Pre line were short, it would now be faster than using CLEAR. I’ll keep it as my credit card covers the renewal, but I would definitely think about ditching if that weren’t the case. Curious to see how this pans out both from an experience perspective and on the CLEAR bottom line. This could cripple them as a company.
Folks, this is not complicated: Simply use the shorter line. If the CLEAR line is shorter, use that. If the PRE line is shorter, use that. Whatever saves the most time. Simple.
If you find that you only use airports where CLEAR doesn't offer any advantage, re-think your strategy about CLEAR membership.
This.
This should be common sense, but reading some of the comments it is obviously not.
Agree - It should be common sense but seems not.
Is anyone talking about the fact that TSA is essentially coming out with another program themselves to compete with CLEAR - Real ID. At ATL, my home airport, they even have employees with lollypop signs pulling people out of the long CLEAR TSA PreCheck lines and putting them through Real ID. I've stopped using my CLEAR membership at ATL as it's almost always slower.
Delta had been a big promoter of CLEAR and were even...
Is anyone talking about the fact that TSA is essentially coming out with another program themselves to compete with CLEAR - Real ID. At ATL, my home airport, they even have employees with lollypop signs pulling people out of the long CLEAR TSA PreCheck lines and putting them through Real ID. I've stopped using my CLEAR membership at ATL as it's almost always slower.
Delta had been a big promoter of CLEAR and were even starting to use their technology for entry into SkyClubs, but all of that seems to have stopped and now Delta's been putting in new self-check-in kiosks that aren't using CLEAR tech.
It isn't "Real ID". That is the name of the enhanced state drivers license program that will be required by May 2025. It doesn't involve biometrics like Clear for identity. Also, no need to ever get this license if you have a passport since that is always acceptable. Not disputing TSA may be developing a biometric program but it won't be called "Real ID"
I think the advantage of clear has been dwindling for a while. The last few times I've flown out of DEN the clear line was longer than the regular TSA line and seemed to be moving slower as well. Checking all ID's will only slow down the process further. I get it free from Amex, but the last time I flew out we just went straight to Pre and skipped clear because of the line....
I think the advantage of clear has been dwindling for a while. The last few times I've flown out of DEN the clear line was longer than the regular TSA line and seemed to be moving slower as well. Checking all ID's will only slow down the process further. I get it free from Amex, but the last time I flew out we just went straight to Pre and skipped clear because of the line. If I drop my Amex Plat (it's on the chopping block next April when the fee is due if they don't bribe me to stay) then I'll probably just drop clear.
With the new advancements at TSA, where they just check your ID, not your boarding pass, CLEAR is becoming less useful.
Clear is the only reason I still have Amex because I've finally figured out a good earning grind with Citi:
1. Premier card $95 AF for 3x on most things
2. Custom Cash 1 $0 AF on groceries 5x
3. Custom Cash 2 $0 AF on airlines 5x
4. Double Cash $0 AF on unbonused 2x
5. Rewards+ $0 AF for 10% points back
I mean, show me a better combo for $95. They gut this and Amex is done.
I flew out of SFO on Tuesday, July 11 and was selected for a random ID check for the first time anywhere. I didn't even know that was a thing with clear. Could be coincidence, but the timing does match the change in policy perfectly.
I think this could be the end of clear. Why get ID twice? Biometric by clear and then again by TSA 100% of the time? TSA should just sell a premium subscription to an expedited lane. Oh wait…
I get Clear basically for free (Delta Diamond, Amex Platinum), so I will keep using it when it makes sense. A couple of items:
1) CLEAR is most useful for those that don't have TSA PreCheck. It is basically a line skipping mechanism for that group (which is rather large). The ID check thing doesn't really change that.
2) I have seen very long CLEAR lines at a variety of airports. At many of...
I get Clear basically for free (Delta Diamond, Amex Platinum), so I will keep using it when it makes sense. A couple of items:
1) CLEAR is most useful for those that don't have TSA PreCheck. It is basically a line skipping mechanism for that group (which is rather large). The ID check thing doesn't really change that.
2) I have seen very long CLEAR lines at a variety of airports. At many of them, like LAX in the early afternoon (I always fly out of LAX from say noon to 3 PM), the PreCheck line will be empty while the CLEAR line will have 10 people. Just use Pre-Check in that case.
3) In some airports, I have resumed using priority security via airline status. I have this with Delta and American. It is actually now the quickest way to get through security at LGA. Just go to the Priority lane, and you are generally waived up front by the TSA Agent. You are also given a PreCheck card, so no removal of shoes, laptop, etc. IME it is the quickest way to get through security in 2023.
I had to see the new terminal A @ EWR. The Clear line was past the entire AA checkin counters and headed towards the terminal entrance doors… I walked the full distance of the building and saw the TSAPre was longer - like LGAs! Kept up my exploration and saw the B6, and UA premium offices - chose this option. When passing thru the automated glass entrance doors an agent asked, “do you have TSAPre?”...
I had to see the new terminal A @ EWR. The Clear line was past the entire AA checkin counters and headed towards the terminal entrance doors… I walked the full distance of the building and saw the TSAPre was longer - like LGAs! Kept up my exploration and saw the B6, and UA premium offices - chose this option. When passing thru the automated glass entrance doors an agent asked, “do you have TSAPre?” and I was directed with 4 others back to the complete other side of terminal where I started - but at the front of the TSAPre main queue. The front of the Clear line was just a few feet away - those were still coming in ahead of us. But the length of that Clear line looked daunting still.
And the execs in Dallas jump for joy. Wonder how much AA spent lobbying the TSA for this to happen…
If I understand correctly, I am paying CLEAR to have my ID checked twice, versus just one check with the ID inspector.
I just had "random" ID inspection twice last weekend.
The only advantage they seem to offer is if the PreCheck line is quite long. (There was nobody there both times.)
I also contacted CLEAR about a customer service issue. They did not reply.
Since it was paid by my credit...
If I understand correctly, I am paying CLEAR to have my ID checked twice, versus just one check with the ID inspector.
I just had "random" ID inspection twice last weekend.
The only advantage they seem to offer is if the PreCheck line is quite long. (There was nobody there both times.)
I also contacted CLEAR about a customer service issue. They did not reply.
Since it was paid by my credit card benefits, I can't ask for a refund.
Unless they come up with an immediate fix, they're gone. It was a nice idea.
I agree--the relationship between an ID and getting on an airplane is dubious. Unless the it's a forged passport from Afghanistan that triggers selectee status, the ID checks are about revenue protection for air carriers. The black lights and name games are petty and transparent theatrics.
They’re only looking at it, they do not touch it, nor do you have to scan your BP. I’ve had 2 occurrences at Clear when the agent said please keep you ID out - you were selected for secondary screening - this meant instead of hold up my phone’s BP, I had to hold up my ID as well. IMHO - it was no big deal. Holding 1 or 2 items.
Plenty of European airports have a way to pay and skip the main line, while still going through the regular ID/security check process. While Precheck is one way of that, CLEAR is just another. It's a bit more expensive I think than the European alternatives, but it's basically the same concept as what they do in Europe. Not sure it's "unfair" if we're paying customers to skip the line.
CLEAR is now a joke. At least at airports. Super expensive and now requiring ID in addition to dealing with the incompetent CLEAR agents who always state "do you have CLEAR?" No, I'm standing here cause I thought y'all were giving away this shit for free smh.
This. And, of course also, "Do you have Pre-check?" It's unfortunate that they have to assume that everyone's an idiot because of those who really are.
Clear was never really about the ID checking. It was always just a veiled program to cut the line which is still intact. I don't think this changes much.
Yep. Just depends if clear line is long. Often times precheck is faster than clear anyways. Just pick the lane that’s faster even factoring in the ID check on both.
I don’t pay for it, amex does. When amex stops I’ll stop using it. Essentially i don’t care, I’ll cut the line so long it exists.
They should just give you a mobile QR code pass instead of biometrics if the ID check is going away.
Interestingly, AA & DFW airport tried this with Airside app. I downloaded the app immediately when released and was able to use it a total of 3 times early last year. Then... everytime I had the app open with my QR code ready I would be in the PreCheck lane... but once at the TSA agent podium they would tell me it's not working. They would say it needs a software update or that they...
Interestingly, AA & DFW airport tried this with Airside app. I downloaded the app immediately when released and was able to use it a total of 3 times early last year. Then... everytime I had the app open with my QR code ready I would be in the PreCheck lane... but once at the TSA agent podium they would tell me it's not working. They would say it needs a software update or that they cannot get it to connect, etc. I tried for several months and gave up. I even asked staff at Admirals club if I could use it but they were clueless despite having a sign advertising it 3 feet from their face!! It appears DFW now just uses ID + facial recognition. I emailed DFW airport a few times about it and got a very responsive employee tell me to keep trying. But I gave up. Clear is now obviously redundant so I plan to cancel it.
Happened to me 3/3 times I went through Clear last month. Didn't bother going through Clear two other times because there was no PreCheck line and for whatever reason it always takes me two or three tries to get a scan on my eyes, so unless the line is long it's slower than just handing my ID to TSA.
Yes, I have actually in the last couple months. Any random ID check on the way out on my outbound, and on my return flight which I thought was unusual. Lines at clear kiosk at LAX in the southwest terminal are ridiculously long and always shortstaffed, if this was my main home airport, I would’ve dropped Clear a long time ago, but luckily at love it’s much smoother, and probably about the same length of...
Yes, I have actually in the last couple months. Any random ID check on the way out on my outbound, and on my return flight which I thought was unusual. Lines at clear kiosk at LAX in the southwest terminal are ridiculously long and always shortstaffed, if this was my main home airport, I would’ve dropped Clear a long time ago, but luckily at love it’s much smoother, and probably about the same length of time. LAX definitely not worth it and when my renewal is up, we’ll have to evaluate if it’s worth keeping depending on how many times I get stopped .
Sometimes CLEAR enrolees have been given access to the precheck line despite not being in precheck. I know this because I myself got access to precheck about 3 times prior to getting Global Entry in 2021. My guess is the person went through CLEAR, got access to precheck despite not being precheck, and carried a prohibited item onboard that resulted in detention.
In my opinion, CLEAR's comingling of regular and precheck travelers has made the...
Sometimes CLEAR enrolees have been given access to the precheck line despite not being in precheck. I know this because I myself got access to precheck about 3 times prior to getting Global Entry in 2021. My guess is the person went through CLEAR, got access to precheck despite not being precheck, and carried a prohibited item onboard that resulted in detention.
In my opinion, CLEAR's comingling of regular and precheck travelers has made the lines roughly the same length as PreCheck, and the sparsity of CLEAR hours/terminals at the checkpoints, so I just go right for the precheck line.
What airports are you using where CLEAR is commingling Pre and Non-pre travelers? I can't remember the last time I've gone through security where there wasn't a specific CLEAR+Pre-only line.
I have personally been 'random' ID checked thed last 5 of 6 times I used CLEAR; not that random if it's that high... the other thing with the long line situation is when CLEAR offers free trials, when people see the regular ID verification having long lines and CLEAR is next to it with no lines, of course they are going to enroll. This leads to longer wait times for those who already have it...
I have personally been 'random' ID checked thed last 5 of 6 times I used CLEAR; not that random if it's that high... the other thing with the long line situation is when CLEAR offers free trials, when people see the regular ID verification having long lines and CLEAR is next to it with no lines, of course they are going to enroll. This leads to longer wait times for those who already have it as the registration process for these 'new' members takes time from the employee to get already established members verified. I think CLEAR should stop with the free trial so that those with it don't have to wait.
I got a random ID check on 1 out of 3 flights last weekend. But the TSA ID check is pretty fast, really. Clear is just paying to skip the line as far as I'm concerned, and they still let you do that even with the random selection. (It's still way faster at DEN, and a little faster at SFO sometimes. Occasionally faster at LAS, too.)
Eh, it's faster at DEN no more than 50% of the time.
I enrolled last fall and have used CLEAR six times. I have been randomly selected six times for ID check. What a waste.
2 out of last 2 times flying I had ID verification. Not a big sample size, but considering that I'm flying less than before, I definitely don't see myself renewing CLEAR. It's not worth it at all. The last time I flew out, about 2 weeks ago out of DTW, the CLEAR line was WAAAAAYYYY longer than regular TSA or the PreCheck line. It took me about 30 minutes to get through security (in the...
2 out of last 2 times flying I had ID verification. Not a big sample size, but considering that I'm flying less than before, I definitely don't see myself renewing CLEAR. It's not worth it at all. The last time I flew out, about 2 weeks ago out of DTW, the CLEAR line was WAAAAAYYYY longer than regular TSA or the PreCheck line. It took me about 30 minutes to get through security (in the CLEAR line!!!). Then the ID verification, to add fuel to the fire... What's the point of CLEAR then if it is slower or the same amount of time as non CLEAR?
“Randomly selected” for ID verification my last 6 flights. Ridiculous.
TSA Precheck on the outbound. Faster than Clear.
CBP Mobile Passport on the inbound (international). Faster than Global Entry.
That's all one needs.
Donna wrote:
> So much hate here for TSA and how they are doing a terrible job and yet I can’t recall a single hijacking of a US Carrier since 9/11/2001
The TSA was created November 19th so you probably meant 19/11/2001 (international standard) or 11/19/2001 (US messed up m/d/y format). In any event yet I can't recall a single sighting of Santa's Sleigh since then either. CLEARLY the TSA is 100% effective...
Donna wrote:
> So much hate here for TSA and how they are doing a terrible job and yet I can’t recall a single hijacking of a US Carrier since 9/11/2001
The TSA was created November 19th so you probably meant 19/11/2001 (international standard) or 11/19/2001 (US messed up m/d/y format). In any event yet I can't recall a single sighting of Santa's Sleigh since then either. CLEARLY the TSA is 100% effective at preventing Santa from flying his sleigh.
Yet I can't recall leprechauns causing mischief on St Patrick's day since the TSA was established. CLEARLY the TSA is 100% effective at preventing the wee folk from causing mayhem.
Or maybe you're confused by "causation vs correlation." The TSA are a bumbling overspending molesting abusive a-holes and they regularly fail at detecting anything of a weapon-like nature, but thankfully mothers' breast milk and peanut butter and marmalade are no longer allowed past their Security Theater™ checkpoint.
Clear and Pre and GOES are programs set up so if you are willing to pay annually you can get the right to travel back... with one little caveat:
IF YOUR GOVERNMENT-ISSUED PHOTO ID is expired as of today or before, then while the day before it showed YOUR PICTURE, YOUR NAME, and YOUR identification, now that it's expired TSA won't accept it. If it happens to be an US state driver's license, that expiration means "Your privilege to drive on public roadways within the issuing state and those other states that recognize that reciproricity of privilege." It IN NO WAY means your picture stopped being your picture, that your name stopped being your name, or that the other identifying information is no longer valid.
So if you want to sing praise to the TSA, it shouldn't be about the hijackings they've done NOTHING to stop. Cockpit reinforced doors have done more than TSA ever will. But hey, lots of people think Hitler and Trump and Stalin were good guys and sing praises to them. They probably enjoy the jack-booted Security Theater the TSA puts on every day.
DONNA,President Trump is a good guy... Get your information and facts straight.. the bad guy is running the country ow in the WH!!!
Dee, year in and year out, you are simply one of the least intelligent posters across all the travel blogs
Soooooo
You are replying to Donna without actually replying to her comment? Makes me a little suspicious of your intentions, are you hoping she won't see the comment?/ trying to get a bigger audience?
Also for you to put Trump in the same "basket" as Stalin and Hitler is quite sickening (Have you heard of gulag and the final solution? Explain to me how trump is even in the same area as those two),and might indicate a case of "Trump derangement syndrome."
In the past 3 months I was random selected 2 times for ID check out of the 6 trips I went through. I love the clear experience and the check additional time was only a minute or two. I always have my ID ready to show. Not a problem for me.
Just passed thru clear in SLC. Clear line was about the same length as pre-check but the clear line was fed in behind the TSA pre check line after passing the agent causing an extensive/confusing merging line of people trying to get to the screeners. The airports don’t seem to care if their logistics impact clear customers.
In the past few weeks, I have flown several times and been randomly selected about 50% of the time. It happened to me this morning, and I joked with the CLEAR agent that it seems to be a common recurrence (wasn't aware of this story), and she apologized and said it's incredibly common now.
Well I have noticed an uptick in random checks.... But last week I flew from NRT to SEA, after passport control you can go right into TSA security without entering the terminal. There were zero boarding pass or ID checks..... I was surprised (and a bit miffed there was no PreCheck). Yes you went through immigration, but I dont see how this if much different.
I was required to present ID at RDU this afternoon. Went quickly though and Clear agent was great.
Def notice like 3 out of last 5 times to airport last couple mos been spot checked never used to be
Anyone try to go in the clear lane and say 'i know i'll have to show my ID to TSA anyways, can I just go straight to the TSA guy'. not waste a few min waiting for the line to clear or using the 'retina or fingerprint' ID method. Why is there 2 (or 3) factor authentication for people that willingly gave retina scan and fingerprints? Why would anyone wait in a line to do...
Anyone try to go in the clear lane and say 'i know i'll have to show my ID to TSA anyways, can I just go straight to the TSA guy'. not waste a few min waiting for the line to clear or using the 'retina or fingerprint' ID method. Why is there 2 (or 3) factor authentication for people that willingly gave retina scan and fingerprints? Why would anyone wait in a line to do this? If I can just walk through the clear area and provide my ID, I'd treat it as a fast pass and be happier than having to provide 3FA when I signed up for 1FA, and anyone who doesn't have it still is just 1FA.
How about each and every time a “random “ I’d check now occurs.
In the last week, the two times I was able to use Clear, I was randomly selected both times.
It is happening a whole lot more over the last few months...
I had to show ID last Friday.
Happened to me last week in Austin. I had my passport on me, so it added 66 seconds to my Clear process.
We also noticed increased ID checks with Clear. I would say that Clear is still faster than PreCheck in our experiences, but the Clear staff quality is getting worse.
The Clear line at DCA was longer than the Precheck line early Monday morning. I was randomly ID verified for the first time by TSA, which required inserting ID into machine while mugging for a camera. Meh.
In the last 3 weeks, I have been randomly selected 2 out of 6 times through Clear. Once at IAD and once at BOS.
Since I have a Colorado DL, this is a bit more nuisance since, for some reason Colorado and TSA can not get their act together - TSA's system does not properly process Colorado DL's. Still, at DIA which is 1/2 of my TSA activity, Clear is worth every penny. I...
In the last 3 weeks, I have been randomly selected 2 out of 6 times through Clear. Once at IAD and once at BOS.
Since I have a Colorado DL, this is a bit more nuisance since, for some reason Colorado and TSA can not get their act together - TSA's system does not properly process Colorado DL's. Still, at DIA which is 1/2 of my TSA activity, Clear is worth every penny. I can generally be dropped at the curb and through security in under 10m any time of day. The PreCheck line can sometimes be extremely long at DIA and with the current construction mess. That being said, I will occasionally see a really long Clear line and just skip into PreCheck if it looks faster.
In March I had to give my driver's license for them to rescan it. They say they need to do this every 5 years. Then in July, the next time I flew, I was "randomly selected" to show ID to TSA. Really? My retinas aren't enough ID?
I laugh every time the line for clear is longer than precheck but since people are paying for clear (or paying for Amex plat) they have to use it - everyone and their grandma has Amex plat now so clear is now also worthless. Used to be valuable, but I rarely use it anymore. TSA agents seem to prioritize the regular precheck lane over clear lane too.
The Clear line is never long at my airport. Always faster than either TSA line.
I'm done with CLEAR!!
I tried them many years ago and then they went bankrupt but promised to provide refunds or at least credit for the new CLEAR. Never happened.
A few years back, Untied Airlines started offering CLEAR for free for 1K and GS members. As a 1K member, I got CLEAR for free. But I also have Global Entry which includes TSA Precheck.
Over the last year, of the all the times I...
I'm done with CLEAR!!
I tried them many years ago and then they went bankrupt but promised to provide refunds or at least credit for the new CLEAR. Never happened.
A few years back, Untied Airlines started offering CLEAR for free for 1K and GS members. As a 1K member, I got CLEAR for free. But I also have Global Entry which includes TSA Precheck.
Over the last year, of the all the times I tried using CLEAR, it only worked once. The other times, either (1) their systems couldn't match my fingerprints or retina scan to their database and I was sent to the regular TSA Precheck line, (2) I was forced to supply multiple IDs to the TSA folks, (3) CLEAR “wasn't open yet,” or (4) there was no CLEAR at the airport (Maui, Kona, etc.).
This year I didn't qualify for Untied 1K and CLEAR wanted $149 to continue that (lack of) service. No way! Cancelled and no renewing! As far as I am concerned it is an expensive scam!
At MCO, you’ll often see one or two people manning Clear, one of whom is standing staring blanking into the distance, while the other tries to service a line of 8 people. The actual Clear process takes longer than just showing an ID so, if they don’t even bother to staff the line, what is the point.
I def won’t be renewing.
I fly out of MCO a lot and I have never seen this.
What I do see is a lot of people enrolling for a free trial, which both makes the line longer and takes more time for each Clear rep to process.
We turned off our auto—renewal for our clear memberships and won’t be renewing them manually, either. Two out of the last 3 times, my eye scan didn’t work and the finger print scans were having trouble as well. While Clear employees were trying to figure out what to do, the regular TSA-Pre line just kept passing us by. Eventually, the Clear agent had to walk me to the TSA agent and present my drivers license—which...
We turned off our auto—renewal for our clear memberships and won’t be renewing them manually, either. Two out of the last 3 times, my eye scan didn’t work and the finger print scans were having trouble as well. While Clear employees were trying to figure out what to do, the regular TSA-Pre line just kept passing us by. Eventually, the Clear agent had to walk me to the TSA agent and present my drivers license—which I could have done in half the time if I simply skipped Clear.
In several years of Clear membership it only saved our butts once—when arriving back in the USA through DEN where we had a short connection and there were very long TSA-Pre lines. Our solution is now to book return flights to the USA with 2-3+ hour layovers at the first point of entry. Nothing wrong with relaxing in a lounge or taking a walk.
Recently flew with my partner (we both have CLEAR), and both flights we took, she was randomly ID checked (but I wasn't). Seems random but also frequent enough to the point where I don't see any benefit in CLEAR if it wasn't a free benefit from Amex.
I am shocked something went wrong with the super safe system of a person telling a TSA agent another person totally passed ID verification at the computer! Simply shocked such a system could be compromised!
Ultimately we all knew this was an idiotic business model.
So much hate here for TSA and how they are doing a terrible job and yet I can’t recall a single hijacking of a US Carrier since 9/11/2001 when the TSA was created in its aftermath. Nor a bomb or downing of an aircraft. Do they miss some weapons and banned substances, sure. Is any system perfect? I read that there have been 15 hijackings worldwide since 2010, none of them US. As someone who...
So much hate here for TSA and how they are doing a terrible job and yet I can’t recall a single hijacking of a US Carrier since 9/11/2001 when the TSA was created in its aftermath. Nor a bomb or downing of an aircraft. Do they miss some weapons and banned substances, sure. Is any system perfect? I read that there have been 15 hijackings worldwide since 2010, none of them US. As someone who was flying on 9/11 and as someone who flew regularly for 15 years prior to that day, I feel safer than ever.
This has more to do with security on the airplane than anything else. It’s been a while since I’ve dug into the details but if I am recalling correctly it essentially boils down to security in front of the airplane is less important than on the airplane. With that knowledge most of what the TSA does ends up being security theatre. Add in the fact that they often unnecessarily harass people (how stories have we...
This has more to do with security on the airplane than anything else. It’s been a while since I’ve dug into the details but if I am recalling correctly it essentially boils down to security in front of the airplane is less important than on the airplane. With that knowledge most of what the TSA does ends up being security theatre. Add in the fact that they often unnecessarily harass people (how stories have we read of mom’s being hassled about bringing breast milk on plane even though they are allowed to?) and you end up with folks not particularly satisfied with what we have.
@Donna
Since the TSA was created, the global climate is temperature is rising much faster. Not only that I can't recall flying TWA ever again.
Therefore, not only did TSA prevented hijacking they also cause global warming and bankrupt TWA?
Did you forget the underwear bomb guy and the shoe bomb guy? You know, the reasons you can't bring liquids onto a plane and you have to take your shoes off? It's because the flunkies at the TSA failed to catch them.
You do realize that both the incidents you referenced were incoming international flights, which the TSA has no responsibility for? The failures were in Paris and Amsterdam. The TSA has had many problems and failures, just not the ones you mentioned.
You're attributing the lack of hijackings to TSA when plenty of different factors likely made hijackings non-existent.
There have been security audits done on TSA, and the results are far from the picture you paint.
Yeah, it seems I've been tagged for an ID check more frequently over the past nine months. If it's some kind of TSA thing, then, yeah, it's understandable because it's TSA. But I'm not going to be discouraged because the CLEAR lanes in a lot of the airports I use is still much shorter than Pre-Check. It's an absolute boon at ORD, ATL, EWR, and SEA, just to cite a few examples.
It is actually a fast lane, over the past year. For this year, I haven’t even encountered any time I need to even wait for Clear while sometime I did see other lanes were very busy. I am flying like 3 round trips per month, so not that infrequent, with all different airports, so I get some average sense. I did hear some of my friends saying that they need wait in a Clear lane,...
It is actually a fast lane, over the past year. For this year, I haven’t even encountered any time I need to even wait for Clear while sometime I did see other lanes were very busy. I am flying like 3 round trips per month, so not that infrequent, with all different airports, so I get some average sense. I did hear some of my friends saying that they need wait in a Clear lane, but very rare. So for me, I completely do not care if they need recheck my ID, I totally use it as a fast track, and it works well.
I’m at the point where I only use CLEAR if the line is obviously shorter or if the airline doesn’t use PreCheck as about 80% of my uses result in an ID check. Wouldn’t pay for it if it wasn’t free with Amex.
Hi - I am so glad to read this as I have been ID checked 6 times in the last three weeks, and I was becoming frustrated because it didn't seem random.
I was selected for random ID check at Orlando airport. The Clear line was short but the ID check added 3-4 minutes to the process. Wasn't a big deal, but it's another hoop to jump through. Not sure I'll renew next year if it's not covered by my credit card benefit.
3-4 minutes for an ID check? Do they do more than if you waited in the normal TSA ID check line?
We all know the TSA is horrible at spotting weapons and other banned items. So this is a major concern if CLEAR also lets in people who shouldn’t be allowed in the first place. Puts us all at risk.
I had to show ID in CLEAR lane leaving PHX headed to EWR last week for afternoon departure. The TSA Prechek line was a long line. CLEAR was empty.
I've yet to have an ID check with Clear.
I'm being selected to show my ID about 50% of the time now.
Once again, the TSA is trying to put Clear (a private vendor) out of business in order to boost government control. It won't stop because the whole role of a bureaucracy is to expand itself, not to improve service to customers.
This is a really bad idea pushed by folks that, themselves, have failed at so many security tasks and identifying "dangerous" items at checkpoints.
I disagree with you here. TSA/DHS have actually(I can't believe I'm saying this) innovated better than the private sector with this, for once. Lol. With the introduction of CAT(credential authentication technology) TSA can drastically cut the time spent in the ID check line, anywhere from 30-50% per person. This is because only the ID must be inserted and the boarding pass does not need to be scanned. The ID is verified and the info from...
I disagree with you here. TSA/DHS have actually(I can't believe I'm saying this) innovated better than the private sector with this, for once. Lol. With the introduction of CAT(credential authentication technology) TSA can drastically cut the time spent in the ID check line, anywhere from 30-50% per person. This is because only the ID must be inserted and the boarding pass does not need to be scanned. The ID is verified and the info from the ID is ran against the TSA's secure flight database. The person's flight and personal info are then brought up. TSA may have some flaws but busting Clear's overpriced, shaky business model isn't one of them.
I'm 2 for 2 in the last 10 days for "random" ID check in the Clear lane. Didn't add more than 30 seconds to the process, but it still defeats the purpose of using Clear.
I have always been of the view that TSA Precheck, CLEAR, and etc have always been too inexpensive. Like Priority Pass, which now practically comes free with a large coffee from Starbucks, these programs have become saturated and they have now just become another line with antiquated screening criteria - hence the need for TSA just to check your ID anyway even though you have voluntarily signed up for clear and provided more information than...
I have always been of the view that TSA Precheck, CLEAR, and etc have always been too inexpensive. Like Priority Pass, which now practically comes free with a large coffee from Starbucks, these programs have become saturated and they have now just become another line with antiquated screening criteria - hence the need for TSA just to check your ID anyway even though you have voluntarily signed up for clear and provided more information than those people who havent. When you are at the point where you say "what difference does it makes" then I think its time for a change. If heavy travelers or business travelers (and the governments who are regulating these programs) want to screen those passengers who are looking to utilize these options, these programs should be priced annually around the price of one first class ticket - $2000? $3000? And the added cost should guarantee a true express screening experience. Take my prints, eyes, pants size who cares? I'm a normal dude? As a frequent business traveler, I could justify that cost across the span of a year in terms of how much time and access that was truly granted to me, assuming the program worked as advertised.
TSA Pre is inexpensive. In my opinion, Clear ($189 per year before discounts) is not. Of course, many get it included with Amex Platinum.
CLEAR is a complete waste of time, money and resources. I know a lot of people who sign up for the free month, go through and then cancel. DL invested in this thinking it was a money maker, at nearly $400 / year it better be but my $79/ every 5 years which is covered by my AA card for Pre-check is a MUCH better deal.
How on earth is this $400/year? Max price for an individual is $189.
I only have CLEAR because I don't pay anything for it. It is sometimes faster if the PreCheck lines are long, but even without ID check I have to remove my glasses, position myself in front of the scanner and usually move my head around so the scan works properly - I'm tall and never seem to position myself properly. So unless the line is considerably shorter, the actual process does not strike me as...
I only have CLEAR because I don't pay anything for it. It is sometimes faster if the PreCheck lines are long, but even without ID check I have to remove my glasses, position myself in front of the scanner and usually move my head around so the scan works properly - I'm tall and never seem to position myself properly. So unless the line is considerably shorter, the actual process does not strike me as any faster than having a TSA agent verify my ID. And how much time are we talking about anyway? I like to think I'm important, but I'm not so important that an extra five or ten minutes really makes or breaks my travel experience.
Bottom line - zero interesting in paying even $25/year for CLEAR.
Anecdotally, I've had 2 ID checks in the past week and haven't had one in the previous 2 years of being a CLEAR member. Both times I was wholly unprepared, as I typically leave my wallet in my bag.
3 out of my last 5 visits to the airport I have had my ID checked. Still faster than Pre Check by seconds.
I Second that, its been about 50% of the time for me at DIA since the first of the year.
I have noticed many more ID checks in the last 3 months or so. Similarly the TSA lanes seem to have become very antagonistic toward the Clear passengers. I'm sure there's some feeling of competition from the TSA union, and this is showing in their many complaints about Clear and Clear customers.
So I agree that there is more random checks. I've already been "randomly" checked 5x more than I was in 22. Sometimes in the same day when I was doing a day business trip.
TSA should focus on learning how to use its own technology before worrying how others are using theirs. At least CLEAR gets their job done.
Apparently not.
According to... oh, yeah, the agency getting pantsed by CLEAR.
I've had 4 trips in a row where I've been hit by the "random" ID check. Clear continues to decline in value for me, it's no longer consistently faster than normal PreCheck and if I need to pull my ID out every time that takes out another significant benefit (of not having to juggle my ID with everything else). If I didn't get it for free I wouldn't bother.
Hi Ben,
I’ve noticed it over the last couple months. I’d say it’s about 25% of the time now.
Here’s what I don’t get/why this is silly - they’re saying that, for security, my retina scan and boarding pass isn’t as secure as my drivers license - that makes no sense. Are retina scans that easy to fake? I would think not…
It’s also inconvenient because then I have to fumble to get my wallet out of my backpack just to have to out it back again for security.
My experience has been the same as others. This first happened to me in late April and takes place probably more than half the time.
I am done with Clear even as getting it for free as a Delta Diamond. Their service has gone downhill and it is annoying. Most of the times, Clear lines are way longer than TSA Pre. They are understaffed and you have to wait until the same person comes back to get another customer. Lastly, the stupid “random check”. This is not random at all. There are weeks I am “randomly” choses 4 times on...
I am done with Clear even as getting it for free as a Delta Diamond. Their service has gone downhill and it is annoying. Most of the times, Clear lines are way longer than TSA Pre. They are understaffed and you have to wait until the same person comes back to get another customer. Lastly, the stupid “random check”. This is not random at all. There are weeks I am “randomly” choses 4 times on the same week. Seriously??? That is BS. It travel at least once a week and almost every week I need to show my iD. Not worth it anymore.
Less than 2 weeks ago, I was "chosen for a random ID check." That's the first time I had ever experienced that after being a CLEAR member for 5 years. I didn't even know that an ID check was possibility in the CLEAR line, as I assumed my retina scan was supposed to be my ID. In fact, I thought that was the whole point of CLEAR.
If that's going to be the norm...
Less than 2 weeks ago, I was "chosen for a random ID check." That's the first time I had ever experienced that after being a CLEAR member for 5 years. I didn't even know that an ID check was possibility in the CLEAR line, as I assumed my retina scan was supposed to be my ID. In fact, I thought that was the whole point of CLEAR.
If that's going to be the norm now, it's even less convenient than just going through the regular PreCheck line, which requires only ID verification rather than ID verification + retina scan. Moreover, in the CLEAR line, there was a wait because I had about a dozen people in front of since processing is limited by the number of scanners and staff to accompany them. There's no way, however, that was 10% of the travelers at the airport. Maybe 1%, if that.
That makes it pointless to pay nearly $200 annually for a service that is actually slower than regular PreCheck, and that effectively devalues the cards such as AmEx Platinum and Green that offer a CLEAR credit. (That credit the only reason I have CLEAR. There's no way I would pay even $50 for it if it were out of pocket.)
Since we get it “free” I appreciate being able to check the lines and choose whichever is shorter, but I agree that it’s gotten to the point where paying out of pocket makes no sense.
My hot take: Clear should not be allowed in an airport unless every single TSA line is open and running. It is absurd that we don't have a government version of Clear with e-gates vs the number of staff it takes to run a single Clear check point. If their system doesn't work and requires manual checks and it now just competes with folks scanning IDs then even more reason it shouldn't exist.
I agree with you. There is nothing more annoying than having a CLEAR agent, put another person in front of the TSA Precheck Line. With the new Facial Match happening with the TSA at more airports, I don't see a reason to have CLEAR there. It's just annoying.
If CLEAR did not require interaction from a TSA Agent then fine, but I'm in line to talk to that same agent, so get behind me.
I judge my line wait times. If there are 15 passengers waiting in TSAPre and no one in the Clear line… I’m choosing the latter, and vice versa. At IAH, the Clear line agent at the front of the queue is so kind… they can be asked for directions from unprepared travelers asking for assistance. The TSAPre line…just turns people away…no directions given!
AND No, Mikelor, I’m not getting behind you! Fun fact: I didn’t pay the $187 for my Clear membership.
Oh yes! I've used clear nine times since Memorial Day and eight times required additional verification! For my last few trips, I've just gone through Pre Check, so much faster for me!
For me this increase in having to show my ID started 2-3 months ago, some times on both legs of a round-trip. I find it very annoying and inefficient as I now have to get out my wallet from my bag, have some Clear rep hold onto my license until I get to the agent, make sure I take my license back, put it back in my wallet and quickly pack it all away as I now need to put my bags on the security conveyor belt. As usual, one person ruins it for the rest of us.
I fly weekly to/from LaGuardia and between Jan-Mar of this year, I got flagged for a "random" ID check using Clear 12 times in a row. I spoke to Clear about this, and they said TSA was requiring increased ID checks. So I suspect this increased ID check requirement has been going on for longer-- they just finally decided to formally announce it. Since March, I'd say I still get selected for the ID check around 30-40% of the time.
On my last two trips the Clear kiosk wanted to verify my Drivers License (although I've been a Clear member for five years). That process involved a series of questions that I failed both times (although I'm sure my answers were correct). I then had to go over to the TSA Pre line, where I had no problems other than the wait. On my third trip I tried Clear again, was given the same questions...
On my last two trips the Clear kiosk wanted to verify my Drivers License (although I've been a Clear member for five years). That process involved a series of questions that I failed both times (although I'm sure my answers were correct). I then had to go over to the TSA Pre line, where I had no problems other than the wait. On my third trip I tried Clear again, was given the same questions as the previous times and passed. It made no sense. I was also told I would be subject to random ID checks going forward.
I fly mostly from IAD and BWI. I have not had a time in the last year where the Clear line was shorter than the regular PreCheck line so I haven't used it since travel picked back up. If it wasn't "free" I would never pay for it. Especially if there's a chance of an ID check anyway.
I've noticed the following in the past three months
* In April, I was asked to "reconfirm" my ID which involved me having to give the Clear agent my Drivers License so it could be scanned into the clear machine.
* In May, I was randomly selected for TSA ID check.
* In June, I was also selected for a TSA ID check.
So out of traveling 5 times using clear- twice resulted in an ID check.
Recently used Clear in FLL and SJU. My ID was verified both times. Incidentally, we were traveling with another family without Clear, and they beat us through security both times.
I'm a Clear member and have noticed an increase in ID checks being required over the last month or so. It seemed too frequent to be just unlucky.
Hi Ben, It was the Washington Post, not the Washington Times.
@ Ari -- Whoops, thanks! Fixed.
Absolutely needed for SeaTac airport of the cluster f*** in the mornings. Precheck lines can stretch out to check in area.
I have Clear and about 40% of the time I am selected for the ID screening. Can’t imagine it being any higher….